Event Overview
A pilot reported an accident during a takeoff attempt on runway 09, which was described as the designated departure runway due to rapidly rising terrain to the immediate west of the field. The wind at the time was less than 3 knots and out of the southwest.
Sequence of Events
The pilot initiated a soft field takeoff with some right rudder input to accommodate the runway's slight "dogleg right" and the prevailing wind conditions. After covering about one quarter of the runway length, the pilot encountered an unexpected significant gust of wind. He applied full right rudder to arrest any left drift, which appeared to successfully counteract the wind gust. While flying less than a foot above the runway, the pilot glanced to his left at a fast approaching tree, which he dismissed as a factor. He then focused his attention forward, and the left wingtip collided with a tree, causing the airplane to yaw to the left. The airplane's main landing gear touched down on the runway surface, and the pilot aborted the takeoff. He applied maximum braking, but the airplane collided with a group of pallets and debris, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that could have precluded normal operation.
Weather Information
At the time of the accident, the wind at Toccoa Airport-RG Letourneau Field, located 15 nautical miles south of the accident airport, was reported from 250 at 9 knots gusting to 19 knots.